The new signs will show groundwater measurements below surface level, making them easier to understand.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources  launched the original signs in 2016 that showed water levels in relation to sea level, a standard convention that allows comparison between groundwater levels in bores at different elevations.

DENR water resources acting executive director, Simon Cruickshank, said the new signs are in response to concerns raised by rural residents about the readability of the signs.

“Groundwater is a finite resource and it is important that rural residents understand how much is available and how full the aquifers are,” Mr Cruickshank said.

“The signs are a reminder to local residents of the variability of groundwater levels over the year.  That’s why we have improved the signs to make them easier to understand.

“DENR’s Water Resources Division undertakes routine monitoring of groundwater across the Darwin area and update the signs around the middle of each month.

“The four roadside signs have been installed at Berry Springs, Howard Springs, Humpty Doo and McMinns Lagoon, giving rural residents a ready snapshot of water tables in their area.”

Go to www.nt.gov.au/water for more information.